In a bold move to counter the tokenistic recognition of Black histories and cultures, the University of Westminster's Black and Minority Ethnic Network has pioneered a Black History Year program. This initiative seeks to address the shortcomings of the traditional one-month approach, which often relegates Black experiences to the background once the designated month is over.
The killing of George Floyd in May 2020 and the subsequent Black Lives Matter protests worldwide exposed the institutional unresponsiveness of the higher education sector in the UK during a critical time in history. In response, the BME Network at the University of Westminster collectively drafted a statement outlining the necessary changes, prompting senior leaders to commit to working collaboratively to become an anti-racist institution.
The Black History Year steering group, founded by members of the BME Network, focused on addressing often misunderstood, ignored, or erased Black histories. The program was launched with a review of Black people's contributions in historical England, specifically the Tudor era, recognizing the artistry, skills, and economic contributions of Black individuals who were initially respected in society.
The steering group held online conversations about the experiences of Black people in higher education, spanning the breadth of present-day experiences and shedding light on the roots of existing inequalities. Experts and activists discussed topics such as the Windrush generation, the music industry, politics, and business, as well as sensitive aspects of human experience, including imposter syndrome, mental health, love, death, and grief.
The impact of the Black History Year programme has been significant, contributing to education, research, knowledge exchange, and relationship-building within and outside the university. It complements initiatives to improve a sense of belonging for students and staff through teaching, learning, research, and knowledge exchange, encouraging compassionate behavior and allyship as part of equality, diversity, and inclusion strategies.
The program has led to bespoke initiatives such as BHY Create, a six-month initiative designed to empower Black students during the final years of their undergraduate degree programs, and the BHY Researchers Network, which helps build skills for writing papers and applying for grants. These initiatives demonstrate the sustainable partnerships and collaborations that can emerge from a year-round focus on Black histories and experiences.
Senior leadership support has been crucial to the success and longevity of the Black History Year program. As the program enters its fourth year, the University of Westminster's leaders have committed to continuing this initiative, enabling the celebration of diverse academics, students, staff, and businesses in their communities.
Despite some pushback from those who view the program as either "neoliberal pandering" or "too woke," the university remains determined to continue with an initiative that began during a time of global flux. By recognizing the histories and cultures of people who have overcome persistent challenges, the Black History Year program provides a hopeful frame for the future, not only for the University of Westminster but for the entire higher education sector.
